Yorkshire puddings

INGREDIENTS

• 4 eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• 6 teaspoons lard or vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

PREPARATION

In a small bowl with a pour spout, mix together the flour and eggs, then stir in the milk. Whisk mixture until just combined, a little lumpy is okay!

• Refrigerate the batter for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
• When ready to bake: Preheat oven to 425 degrees F and add ½ teaspoon of oil or lard to each hole of a 12-count muffin tin.
• Place muffin tin in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.
• Remove the batter from the fridge and stir in the salt and pepper.
• Working quickly, remove the hot muffin tin from the oven and immediately pour the batter evenly into the tin. Return pan to the oven as fast as possible.
• Cook puddings for 16-18 minutes or until puffy and golden brown.

Variations

1. Flavor Additions:
   • Cheesy: Add ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) to the egg mixture for a richer flavor.
   • Herbs and Spices: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill, or add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for a savory twist.
   • Vegetables: Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost.
2. Protein Upgrades:
   • Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a hearty dish.
   • For a lighter option, use diced turkey or chicken.
3. International Twists:
   • Mexican: Add a dash of cumin, chili powder, and some diced jalapeños. Top with salsa and avocado.
   • Italian: Include Italian seasoning and sun-dried tomatoes, and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
   • Asian: Stir in a splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chopped green onions for an umami-packed variation.
4. Dietary Substitutions:
   • Use plant-based milk (e.g., almond or oat milk) for a dairy-free version.
   • Replace eggs with a vegan egg substitute, such as silken tofu or aquafaba, for a vegan-friendly dish.

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Tips for Success

1. Whisking:
   • Whisk the eggs thoroughly with milk to ensure a smooth, fluffy texture.
2. Cooking Fat:
   • Use lard or oil sparingly to prevent greasiness. Heat it until just shimmering before adding the egg mixture.
3. Seasoning:
   • Adjust salt and pepper to taste, but consider seasoning after cooking for more control.
4. Temperature Control:
   • Cook on medium-low heat to prevent the eggs from overcooking or sticking.
5. Storage:
   • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

These simple ingredients and techniques can be customized to fit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences!